Transcon Developers, a Mumbai-based real estate company, is known for its luxury projects. For over 25 years, the company has delivered over 0.5 million sq ft of recreational spaces across projects. It has more than nine ongoing projects and has serviced over 2,500 happy families. Shraddha Kedia-Agarwal, Director, Transcon Developers, discusses various aspects of project planning and execution, including challenges faced and the role of software and technology, with R SRININIVASAN. Excerpts: What challenges has the company faced while sourcing raw materials for projects and how were they overcome? Transcon Developers has encountered several challenges in sourcing raw materials, including supply chain disruptions, price volatility and quality assurance. To overcome these, we have established strong relationships with multiple suppliers to ensure a steady supply of quality materials. Additionally, we have invested in technology to monitor and manage our supply chain efficiently, allowing us to anticipate and mitigate potential disruptions. By adopting sustainable procurement practices and exploring alternative materials, we have also managed to keep costs in check while maintaining high quality standards. What role does software play in project monitoring to ensure timely deliveries? Software plays a crucial role in project monitoring by providing real-time data and analytics, enabling better decision-making and efficient resource management. Project management software helps track progress, allocate tasks and foresee potential delays, ensuring timely deliveries. Tools like building information modelling (BIM) and project management platforms allow for seamless collaboration among stakeholders, reducing the risk of miscommunication and enhancing overall project efficiency. Please elaborate upon the role of AI in reducing the time and cost of projects. AI significantly reduces the time and cost of construction projects by optimising various processes. AI-powered algorithms can predict potential issues, automate routine tasks, and enhance design precision through machine learning models. This results in faster decision-making and reduced human error. Additionally, AI-driven tools can streamline supply chain management, predict maintenance needs and improve site safety, ultimately leading to cost savings and timely project completions. What air monitoring measures (dos and don’ts) should be carried out at construction and demolition sites? To address air quality concerns at construction and demolition sites, the following measures should be implemented: Dos: Install air quality monitoring stations at strategic locations. Use dust suppression techniques like water spraying. Ensure proper storage and disposal of construction materials. Implement green cover strategies such as planting trees around sites. Regularly inspect and maintain machinery to minimise emissions. Don'ts: Avoid open burning of waste materials. Prevent unnecessary idling of vehicles and machinery. Do not neglect covering trucks transporting construction debris. Avoid the excessive use of diesel generators. Refrain from conducting demolition activities without dust control measures in place. What should be done for business houses in India to properly manage their construction waste? To properly manage construction waste in India, the following steps should be taken: Enforce stringent regulations and guidelines for construction waste management. Encourage the recycling and reuse of construction materials through incentives and awareness programmes. Adopt advanced technologies for waste segregation and processing. Provide training and educational programmes for workers and stakeholders on sustainable waste management practices. Foster collaborations between government bodies and private enterprises to develop efficient waste management infrastructure. Kindly comment on barriers to the usage of green steel and green cement in projects. The primary barriers to the usage of green steel and green cement include higher costs, limited availability and lack of awareness among stakeholders. Green materials often come at a premium price, making them less attractive for cost-conscious projects. Additionally, the supply chain for these materials is not as well-developed as for traditional materials, leading to availability issues. There is also a need for greater awareness and education on the benefits of green materials to encourage their adoption. Overcoming these barriers requires concerted efforts from industry stakeholders, policymakers and consumers to create demand and support for sustainable building practices.